In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, creators are navigating a challenging landscape for the ninth art. Following a decline in traditional publishing houses and bookstores, artists have developed independent strategies to reach their audience. Author Jérémie Nsingi highlights that while the local market faced significant setbacks, creators are now finding innovative ways to produce and distribute their work. This includes sourcing more affordable printing options abroad and organizing mini-festivals directly within schools to connect with readers. By bypassing conventional retail networks, these artists aim to sustain a century-old tradition of Congolese comics while exploring new storytelling avenues, such as graphic novels featuring public figures to highlight local realities. As the industry evolves through these grassroots efforts, how do you think independent creators can best build sustainable connections with their readers in regions lacking traditional comic book stores…